Chicago in Focus in New Victory Cruise Tour

As the only cruise line to dock at downtown Chicago’s Navy Pier, Victory Cruise Lines is introducing a new, fully guided Navy Pier Culinary and History Collection for 2026.

This walking and culinary experience explores the landmark in celebration of America250. Chicago remains a cornerstone of Victory Cruise Lines’ U.S. offerings, with multiple round trip itineraries embarking from Navy Pier.

“As America marks its 250th anniversary, our guests are traveling through the living story of the United States,” said John Waggoner, founder and chairman of Victory Cruise Lines. Historic ports including Chicago, Detroit and Cleveland, reflect the industrial ingenuity, diversity and enduring pride of the Great Lakes, he adds. 

Taking place on arrival days only, the new, fully guided Chicago walking and culinary experience invites guests to step into the flavors and stories of the Windy City. The  fully guided walking experience brings together the city’s rich past and its most iconic bites. Priced at $99 per guest, invites guests to explore Navy Pier as a living piece of Chicago history. Guests will uncover fascinating stories tied to world’s fairs, military training during wartime, grand exhibitions, public celebrations, and cultural milestones that reflect both Chicago’s growth and America’s resilience over 250 years.

History also meets flavor as the experience unfolds into a tasting showcase featuring true Chicago classics. Guests will savor a slice of legendary deep-dish pizza, known for its buttery crust and hearty layers, enjoy a classic Chicago-style hot dog, piled with tradition, and sink their teeth into a juicy Italian beef sandwich, seasoned to perfection, and dipped just right for maximum flavor. The experience concludes on a sweet note with a classic Chicago dessert, the perfect finale to a tour that satisfies both curiosity and appetite

Voyages feature U.S. destinations with deep maritime and industrial roots, including ports connected by the St. Lawrence Seaway and Great Lakes system. Cruises on Victory begin or end in Toronto.

Each Victory Cruise Lines voyage, includes a one-night pre-cruise hotel stay, complimentary ground transfers, ocean view accommodations (some with verandas), and an included shore excursion in every port.

Guests will enjoy acclaimed cuisine in multiple venues, specialty restaurants like the Tuscan Stone Grill, unlimited beverages, open bars and lounges, unlimited Wi-Fi, live onboard entertainment and enrichment programs guided by expert LakeLorians.

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